Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

Greater Noida: Buddh International Circuit is pleased to announce the 'BIC Time Trial' (Open track day) for general public on March 10, 2013. The open track day, at one of the world's best F1 circuit, will give speed fanatics a chance to test their driving skills in the safest and controlled environment.

Greater Noida: At the 2012 Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Prize Giving Gala held in Istanbul, Turkey on Dec 7th, Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) won the 'Best F1 Race Promoter' award for the second year in a row. The FIA award recognizes JPSI's hard work to make India a proud host of Formula One with the state of the art, Buddh International Circuit (BIC).

Buddh International Circuit (BIC), which on October 30, 2011 hosted the first F1 Indian Grand Prix, has been awarded the 'Motorsport Facility of the Year' award at the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2011 Awards, held in Cologne, Germany. Boris Lazaric (COO - Construction, JPSI) collected the award on behalf of JPSI on November 15, 2011.

2013 Formula 1 ® Airtel Indian GP Tickets go on Sale

Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

3 August 2013, Greater Noida: Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

JPSI – the organizer and promoter of Formula 1 in India – has launched the Sunday tickets simultaneously with the season tickets. A three-day Indian GP ticket for Natural & Picnic Stand has been priced at Rs 2000, whereas a Main Grand Stand (MGS) ticket for the race weekend is for Rs 15,000 (Upper-Tier) and a Sunday ticket for MGS Upper-Tier can be purchased for Rs 10,000.

Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, JPSI, said, “Formula 1 lovers now have every reason to cheer as single day race tickets have been launched together with the season tickets in order to draw more and more number of spectators for the race day. With one of the cheapest tickets available on the F1 calendar, we hope to put up another memorable racing weekend at BIC in October.”

2013 F1 ® Indian GP tickets Rates (in INR)

Stand

3-day Ticket

Sunday Ticket

MGS lower-tier

21,000

12,000

MGS Upper-Tier

15,000

10,000

Premium Stand

10,000

7,500

Star Stand

7,500

5,000

Natural/Picnic Stand

2,000

1,500

2013 Indian GP tickets can be bought online at www.bookmyshow.com and also from Mercedes-Benz dealership in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Chandigarh. Mercedes-Benz is the official automobile partner for Buddh International Circuit.

Mr. Eberhard Kern, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “Mercedes-Benz is a performance brand and our long association with Motorsports is a testimony to this fact. It has been Mercedes-Benz India’s continuous endeavour to enable more people to experience the performance and dynamism of our cars, and we will continue this effort in times to come. Our partnership with JPSI has been very fruitful in popularizing motorsport in India. We are very excited for the third edition of the Indian GP, sale of tickets for which begins today. The F1 ® Indian GP tickets will also be available from our dealerships in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh and Pune. We look forward to welcome Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg during the third edition of Indian GP.”

KELME to be official merchandise partner for BIC

Jaypee Sports International Ltd (JPSI) today announced that KELME, a popular sports and lifestyle brand of Spain, will be official supplier and licensed merchandise partner for Buddh International Circuit (BIC), the host for Formula 1 Grand Prix, World Superbike Championship and other motorsport.

Greater Noida, 04 June 2013: Jaypee Sports International Ltd (JPSI) today announced that KELME, a popular sports and lifestyle brand of Spain, will be official supplier and licensed merchandise partner for Buddh International Circuit (BIC), the host for Formula 1 Grand Prix, World Superbike Championship and other motorsport.

Through this partnership, KELME will have exclusive rights to design, develop and sell BIC branded motorsport and lifestyle apparel and accessories across India, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, JPSI said: "We are very pleased to have a top quality international brand like KELME as our apparel partner. There has always been a lot of interest for merchandise among motorsport fans, and with KELME on board, we intend to offer more variety of stylish and trendy BIC collection."

Mr Ashish Seth, Director, South-East Asia, KELME: "KELME has been synonymous with technology innovation and style. This partnership with BIC will provide world class merchandise to fans across the globe, and help popularise motorsport in India."

KELME is a new entrant to Indian market but it is well-known in Europe and elsewhere particularly for its sponsorship of popular football team Real Madrid C.F and the 1992 Spanish Olympic team.

About KELME

KELME is a company devoted to manufacturing and distribution of sportswear, footwear and equipment with a special focus on team sports and fashion trends. KELME is headquartered at Elche (Alicante, Spain), and has its sales offices worldwide.

Founded in 1977, its long course covers many successes and top-end events like the equipment sponsorship of the whole Spanish Olympic Team in Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, or the sponsorship of the Real Madrid C. F. from 1994 to 1998, as well as the sponsorship of the KELME cycling team, one of the best Spanish cycling teams in the history.

BIC announces Open Track Day

Greater Noida: Buddh International Circuit is pleased to announce the 'BIC Time Trial' (Open track day) for general public on March 10, 2013. The open track day, at one of the world's best F1 circuit, will give speed fanatics a chance to test their driving skills in the safest and controlled environment.

The track day will be open to all categories of bike and car owners and the only criteria to reserve a seat for a speed enthusiast is to have a valid driving license.

One will have the following options to choose from:

S.No

Vehicle Mode

Options(1 session=60 mins)

Registration fee(INR)

1

Car

1 session

Rs. 4000

sessions*

Rs. 12000

2

Bike

1 session

Rs. 3000

3 sessions*

Rs. 9000

*On Booking of three sessions, the fourth session will be complimentary (limited period offer)

Prior to taking their vehicles out on the track, each car or motorbike will be first assessed by track officials. There will then be a safety briefing facilitated by BIC's highly qualified professional driving instructors to discuss the rules, safety, driving techniques, circuit information and handling emergency situations while out on the tarmac.

JPSI gets Best F1 Race Promoter award

Greater Noida: At the 2012 Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Prize Giving Gala held in Istanbul, Turkey on Dec 7th, Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) won the 'Best F1 Race Promoter' award for the second year in a row. The FIA award recognizes JPSI's hard work to make India a proud host of Formula One with the state of the art, Buddh International Circuit (BIC).

On winning the prestigious trophy for the second year, Mr Sameer Gaur, Managing Director and CEO of Jaypee Sports International said, "This is indeed a very proud moment and I am honoured to receive this FIA award for the second time on behalf of my entire team and the country, whose support and enthusiasm was responsible for us to win this award again. This award will motivate us to host a grandeur F1 Indian Grand Prix next year and we would hopefully be able to complete a hat-trick of the award."

The FIA Prize Giving Gala is organized every year to honour all those who make outstanding contribution to promote motorsports world-wide.

Mr. Farhan Vohra, in-charge of race operations at the Buddh International Circuit, was also recognised by the FIA as the 'Best Clerk of the Course' for the year 2012. As a Clerk of the Course (COC), Mr. Vohra had the important responsibility of managing race operations and race control at the BIC during the first two editions of F1 Indian Grand Prix. Previously, he has also been a steward at the Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Germany F1 races, and is the only Indian accredited by the FIA to be a Steward and a Clerk at an F1 race.

Mr. Farhan Vohra, Race Operations in-charge and Clerk of the Course, Buddh International Circuit said, "I am honoured with this recognition, which could not have been possible without the efforts of entire JPSI team that helped ensure a smooth Indian Grand Prix for the second year running. We had made some changes to the track, leading up to the second Indian Grand Prix, but to think that we were able to achieve greater heights than last year, as the recognition signifies, is a testimony to how much more Buddh International Circuit can offer to motor racing."

This award marks the second year running of BIC’s recognition as a world class motorsport facility. The Circuit and Mr Sameer Gaur had got over a dozen national and international awards last year as well.

Buddh International Circuit wins a Global Award

Buddh International Circuit (BIC), which on October 30, 2011 hosted the first F1 Indian Grand Prix, has been awarded the 'Motorsport Facility of the Year' award at the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2011 Awards, held in Cologne, Germany. Boris Lazaric (COO - Construction, JPSI) collected the award on behalf of JPSI on November 15, 2011.

The other contenders in the category were Baltimore Street Circuit, Mugello Circuit and Phoenix International Raceway but BIC emerged as a winner unanimously.

Speaking on the occasion, Manoj Gaur, Chairman, JPSI said "This is a very proud moment for us and it feels great to be acknowledged for the hard work that made the inaugural Indian Grand Prix at BIC a resounding success. I would like to congratulate my team and dedicate this award to every member who worked tirelessly in making BIC a world class racing facility."

Gary Anderson, a member of the PMW Expo Awards judging panel added "Over the last 10 years we have seen many new Formula 1 circuits created around the world, most of these to an excellent standard as far as the overall facility is concerned but lacking imagination when it comes to the actual circuit design. Buddh International Circuit has gone the other way and created an excellent circuit layout, which the drivers, engineers and spectators love. With adequate facilities to put on a great event, it will mature into one of the best."

Professional MotorSport World Expo is central Europe's leading trade-only motorsport exhibition. It is a meeting place for professionals to exchange technologies, innovations and ideas on how to drive the industry. Visitors are professionals from across the motorsport disciplines including: single-seater racing; saloon racing; drag racing; rallying; off-roading; historic motorsport; sports car racing; karting; and speed events.

About Buddh International Circuit

Hermann Tilke designed the 5.14km long Buddh International Circuit (BIC) as one of the fastest, most exciting motor racing circuits in the world. It is well suited to the requirements of powerful, high-spec racing cars and motorcycles and will host some of the most challenging motorsports events on the planet. The track's combination of 16 corners, high-speed straights and dramatic changes in elevation has been designed to provide ample opportunities for overtaking, which is what makes motor racing exciting. At the same time, in terms of adherence to safety norms and regulations, run-off areas, medical facilities, facilities for the media and overall infrastructure, BIC is among the best in the world.

Buddh International Circuit: Fact-sheet

Length: 5.14km
Turns: 16
Highest point of elevation: 14m
Width of the track: Between 10m - 14m
Top speeds on the circuit: About 320km/h, for an F1 car
Total seating capacity: About 100,000
Distance from New Delhi: 40km approx.

Jaypee Sports International Limited: About Us

FIA awards: JPSI is year's best promoters

Sameer Gaur wins Promotional Promoter Trophy at 2011 FIA Gala
At the 2011 Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Prize Giving Gala held for the first time in India, Formula One group CEO Mr Bernie Ecclestone presented Mr Sameer Gaur, Managing Director and CEO of Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) with the best promotional trophy for a promoter recognizing JPSI's contribution in making India one of the finest motorsport destinations in the region through Buddh International Circuit.

In a star-studded evening of celebration at the appropriately-named Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon on Friday, Formula 1 awarded trophies to winners and champions in a varied number of categories.

Buddh International Circuit (BIC), which on October 30, 2011 hosted the inaugural Indian Grand Prix, had been lately awarded the 'Motorsport Facility of the Year' award at the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2011 Awards, held in Cologne, Germany. More recently, it has been awarded 'Best Motorsport Facility' by CNBC Overdrive. Also, Mr Sameer Gaur was named TopGear 'Man of the Year' by BBC and 'Man of the Year' by Man's World Magazine for his efforts to make the first ever Formula 1 Grand Prix in India such a success.

On being bestowed with this prestigious trophy Sameer Gaur, Managing Director and CEO of Jaypee Sports International said "This is indeed a very proud moment and I am honoured to receive this FIA award on behalf of my entire team and everyone whose support was indispensible in ensuring the resounding success of the first ever Indian Grand Prix. These compliments give us strength and will definitely inspire us to take ensuing events to new heights"

Professional MotorSport World Expo is central Europe's leading trade-only motorsport exhibition. It is a meeting place for professionals to exchange technologies, innovations and ideas on how to drive the industry. Visitors are professionals from across the motorsport disciplines including: single-seater racing; saloon racing; drag racing; rallying; off-roading; historic motorsport; sports car racing; karting; and speed events.

About Jaypee Sports International Limited:

Established in October 2007, Jaypee Sports International Ltd., a subsidiary of Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. (JAL), has constructed India's premier motorsports destination - Buddh International Circuit (BIC) - which hosted India's first ever F1 Grand Prix on 30 October 2011. In addition to F1, the track is also expected to host other top-level international motorsports events. BIC will be a part of Jaypee Sports City, which is spread over 2,500 acres. This facility will include a Cricket stadium that is being developed in two phases and which will have a seating capacity of 100,000 people. There will also be a hockey arena, a sports training academy and infrastructure for other sports.

Jaypee Sports City, the country's first fully integrated megacity built around a sporting lifestyle and featuring premium residential and commercial spaces, has been designed by worldrenowned architects and planners, WATG. One of the world's leading design consultants for the hospitality, leisure and entertainment industries, WATG has made a significant contribution to making Jaypee Sports City the best of its kind anywhere in the world.

2012 F1TM Airtel Indian GP Tickets Launched, Prices Slashed

Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has commenced the sale of tickets for 2012 Formula 1 Airtel Grand Prix of India which will take place at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), Greater Noida, on October 28, Sunday.

Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, JPSI, launched the sale of tickets and gave the first ticket to Deccan Chargers captain Kumar Sangakkara and his team mates at a simple ceremony held at BIC on April 10.

"By the grace of God and good wishes of millions of Indians, we managed to host a hugely successful F1 race last year. It demonstrated, among other things, India's ability to hold highly challenging international sporting events. Let me take this opportunity to thank motorsport fans, international community, government agencies, and media for their support. The Group needs their good wishes and active support for this year's F1 Indian GP as well," said Mr Sameer Gaur.

He also thanked Deccan Chargers and the media for sparing time to be present at the function. He said "facilities at BIC had been improved further and you can look forward to a far more entertaining F1 race this year. We are also trying to bring some other thrilling international races to BIC, details of which will be announced soon".

In order to give motorsport enthusiasts a chance to watch the highest level of motor racing from a vantage point, JPSI has reduced the price of its Main Grand Stand by Rs 5,000. Thus, F1 fans can witness the grid and pit lane action just for Rs 30,000 on October 26, 27, and 28.

The ticket is inclusive of food and beverages vouchers worth Rs 3,000 but not parking charges which one will have to pay separately at the time of booking tickets. A limited number of tickets are also available for the main race day - October 28 - at Rs 20,000/- only. Moreover, early birds will get BIC merchandise free of cost on booking the 3-day MGS tickets.

The minimum ticket for the three-day action packed event will be available for Rs 3,500 for the natural stands. Tickets and all the other relevant information about ticket slabs, parking charges, shuttle services from various points in NCR, location of stands, etc, are now available at www.jaypeesports.com and www.bookmyshow.com.

Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

Riders of the World Super Sport Mahi Racing Team, Kenan Sofouglu, also the current World Super Sport Champion, and Fabien Foret will be riding down at the Buddh International Circuit on 30th March 2013 along with Delhi's only Superbike Gang, G.O.D.S.

Most motorsport fans, who were confined to watching the action from the general stands at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), now have the opportunity to take a sneak peek into the state-of-the-art Formula 1 facility.

Buddh International Circuit is pleased to announce the ‘BIC Time Trial’ (Open track day) for general public on March 10, 2013. The open track day, at one of the world’s best F1 circuit, will give speed fanatics a chance to test their driving skills in the safest and controlled environment.

Cyclist Pannasenko Nikita of Kazakhstan managed to edge past German Plarre Matthias in a photo-finish to win the final leg of the Tour de India at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida on Dec 9, also emerging the overall winner with 16 points.

"We have a lot of Asian countries doing well in the international area like Malaysia, China, and Kazakhstan. It is high time we also start doing well. But we lag behind when it comes to the technique despite having the talent," said CFI president Parminder Singh Dhindsa

At the 2012 Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Prize Giving Gala held in Istanbul, Turkey on Dec 7th, Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) won the 'Best F1 Race Promoter' award for the second year in a row. The FIA award recognizes JPSI’s hard work to make India a proud host of Formula One with the state of the art, Buddh International Circuit (BIC).

England's Jordan King completed an emphatic double in the MRF F2000 championship while Japan's Yuudai Jinkawa walked away from a spectacular crash after ramming into a straying Tom Gladdis of Gibraltar on the opening day of the Sidvin Festival of Speed at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida on Dec 1.

On a day of highs, 16-year old Aston Hare from Johannesburg, South Africa, clinched the championship in the JK Racing Asia Series in his maiden single-seater season while India's Aditya Patel notched his first international race in this category as the Sidvin Festival of Speed concluded at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida on Dec 2.

The inaugural SIDVIN Festival of Speed that brings together rivals JK Tyre and MRF Tyres besides Volkswagen and is to be held in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012, will be an annual fixture in the Indian motorsport calendar, according to Mohan Nagarajan, CMD, Sidvin Core-Tech India Pvt. Ltd.

The wellknown faces of Indian motorsports Karun Chandhok, Narain Karthikeyan, Aditya Patel and Armaan Ebrahim are set to act as chauffeurs at the Sidvin Festival of Speed that will held at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012.

In an event that could be the largest motorsport spectacle of domestic racing that India has ever witnessed, the SIDVIN Festival of Speed takes place at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012.

"Sachin Tendulkar has just been an incredible cricketer and one of the most amazing sportspersons the world has seen. Australians have utmost respect for Tendulkar. The government, the people, everyone respects him," said Red Bull's Mark Webber.

Expect no Lady Gaga this time! But a mix of international DJs (disc jockeys) and entertainers from the famous Cirque du Soleil club are set to rev up the action at Arjun Rampal's official after-parties for the second Formula One Indian Grand Prix.

India has taught him 'aspirational' philosophy. Now, when legendary guitarist Carlos Santana is set to perform at the Formula One Rocks concert, the musician feels 'honoured' to take the stage in a country that has inspired him in many ways.

The Delhi edition of the Bacardi NH7 Weekender starts on October 13 with six stages and over 60 artists performing.

2013 Formula 1 Airtel Indian GP Tickets go on Sale

Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

3 August 2013, Greater Noida: Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has announced the commencement of sale of tickets for the third edition of Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix which will be held at Buddh International Circuit on 25, 26 and 27 October this year.

JPSI – the organizer and promoter of Formula 1 in India – has launched the Sunday tickets simultaneously with the season tickets. A three-day Indian GP ticket for Natural & Picnic Stand has been priced at Rs 2000, whereas a Main Grand Stand (MGS) ticket for the race weekend is for Rs 15,000 (Upper-Tier) and a Sunday ticket for MGS Upper-Tier can be purchased for Rs 10,000.

Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, JPSI, said, “Formula 1 lovers now have every reason to cheer as single day race tickets have been launched together with the season tickets in order to draw more and more number of spectators for the race day. With one of the cheapest tickets available on the F1 calendar, we hope to put up another memorable racing weekend at BIC in October.”

2013 F1 Indian GP tickets Rates (in INR)

Stand

3-day Ticket

Sunday Ticket

MGS lower-tier

21,000

12,000

MGS Upper-Tier

15,000

10,000

Premium Stand

10,000

7,500

Star Stand

7,500

5,000

Natural/Picnic Stand

2,000

1,500

2013 Indian GP tickets can be bought online at www.bookmyshow.com and also from Mercedes-Benz dealership in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Chandigarh. Mercedes-Benz is the official automobile partner for Buddh International Circuit.

Mr. Eberhard Kern, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “Mercedes-Benz is a performance brand and our long association with Motorsports is a testimony to this fact. It has been Mercedes-Benz India’s continuous endeavour to enable more people to experience the performance and dynamism of our cars, and we will continue this effort in times to come. Our partnership with JPSI has been very fruitful in popularizing motorsport in India. We are very excited for the third edition of the Indian GP, sale of tickets for which begins today. The F1 Indian GP tickets will also be available from our dealerships in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh and Pune. We look forward to welcome Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg during the third edition of Indian GP.”

KELME to be official merchandise partner for BIC

Greater Noida, 04 June 2013: Jaypee Sports International Ltd (JPSI) today announced that KELME, a popular sports and lifestyle brand of Spain, will be official supplier and licensed merchandise partner for Buddh International Circuit (BIC), the host for Formula 1 Grand Prix, World Superbike Championship and other motorsport.

Through this partnership, KELME will have exclusive rights to design, develop and sell BIC branded motorsport and lifestyle apparel and accessories across India, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, JPSI said: “We are very pleased to have a top quality international brand like KELME as our apparel partner. There has always been a lot of interest for merchandise among motorsport fans, and with KELME on board, we intend to offer more variety of stylish and trendy BIC collection.”

Mr Ashish Seth, Director, South-East Asia, KELME: “KELME has been synonymous with technology innovation and style. This partnership with BIC will provide world class merchandise to fans across the globe, and help popularise motorsport in India.”

KELME is a new entrant to Indian market but it is well-known in Europe and elsewhere particularly for its sponsorship of popular football team Real Madrid C.F and the 1992 Spanish Olympic team.

About KELME

KELME is a company devoted to manufacturing and distribution of sportswear, footwear and equipment with a special focus on team sports and fashion trends. KELME is headquartered at Elche (Alicante, Spain), and has its sales offices worldwide.

Founded in 1977, its long course covers many successes and top-end events like the equipment sponsorship of the whole Spanish Olympic Team in Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, or the sponsorship of the Real Madrid C. F. from 1994 to 1998, as well as the sponsorship of the KELME cycling team, one of the best Spanish cycling teams in the history.

Dhoni surprises Mahi racing team members

Greater Noida: Mahendra Singh Dhoni's passion for having the world's best superbikes in his garage has been well documented.

But the two riders of his Mahi Racing Team India were in for a pleasant surprise when the Indian cricket team captain easily shifted gears while talking to them about the nuances of bike racing and the technical aspects of tuning the bikes.

Dhoni formed Mahi Racing Team India in 2012 with the vision to promote superbike racing in India and the team made a fantastic start to the season with Sofuoglu winning the first race at Philip Island, Australia and Foret finished fourth.

“I follow the progress of the team very keenly and want to see more and more Indian youths take to Superbikes in the future,” said Dhoni, who has been regularly tweeting about the team’s progress in the last few weeks.

Playing a perfect host to world Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu and Fabien Foret, Dhoni spent over three hours with his guest and even apprised them with what they should expect when they coming to India for the season's final race in November.

"It was a great evening. We were supposed to meet for about 15 minutes but once we got talking about bikes, strategy to win races and of course cricket, time just flew," said Sofuoglu after their meeting with Dhoni.

Mahi Racing's Chairman and Managing Director Arun Pandey said, "the idea behind bringing the drivers to India was to let them know how passionate we all are for the sport and also promote Superbike racing in India.

"After meeting Dhoni, I am sure they will now know how dedicated we are to ensure that the team wins the championship this year," he added.

While the talk between Dhoni and the two riders revolved mostly around the racing team, the Indian captain also explained them the nuances of cricket and even how bats are manufactured and how the player's test them.

Foret, who is a Frenchman and hasn't followed cricket before, said that more than the technical details of cricket we were keen to know how Indian cricketers, and especially Dhoni, handle the pressure of expectations.

"He explained to us how he follows his passion of playing cricket and not get baulked down by the pressure of getting results," said Foret adding that he and Sofuoglu (from Turkey) have started following a bit of cricket after their last meeting with Dhoni during the team launch.

"He also told us that the pressure would build by the time we come here in November for the race and I am sure we will be prepared for that," said Foret, who also promised Dhoni his helmet after he finishes on the podium in the next race in Spain.

The final race of the season would be held at the Buddh International Circuit and the riders had a glimpse of the track on Saturday.

They were driven around on the track as competition rules do not permit them to ride on the track they would race in the season.

While the two riders had to be satisfied with a drive around, 35 members of Group of Delhi Superbikers (G.O.D.S.) burnt rubber on the race track in front of a sizable crowd that had come to see them in action.

"It was a great experience to ride on a F1 track," said one of the members of G.O.D.S. and said the tips from the two riders would come in handy for them.

Both Sofuoglu and Foret praised the layout of the track and said that they would look forward to racing here.

Mahi Racing Team Riders to ride at the F1 Track

Riders of the World Super Sport Mahi Racing Team, Kenan Sofouglu, also the current World Super Sport Champion, and Fabien Foret will be riding down at the Buddh International Circuit on 30th March 2013 along with Delhi's only Superbike Gang, G.O.D.S.

This is the first time that such an initiative is undertaken to promote Super bike racing in India as India. BIC will host the last round of the World Super Bike and World Supersport championship in November this year.

Asian Cycling: Uzbek rider tops elite race

Greater Noida, March 17: Uzbekistan's Muradian Khalmuratov shot to fame by winning gold in the 156.2 km men's elite race on the concluding day of the Hero Asian Cycling Championships here on March 17.

The Uzbekistan rider had to be content with silver in the 2011 Asian Championships, but it was a double delight for Muradian at Buddh International Circuit as he had earlier won gold in the 42.6 km time trial event.

"India has proved to be lucky for me. I had never won two gold medals in my life before," said the Olympian who failed to finish his event in the London Games last year.

Muradian showed his maturity as he mixed calm with aggression to keep himself in the lead bunch even as Asian Tour leader Mehdi Sohrabi of Iran preferred to stay behind in the second lot.

With just one lap to go, Muradian, who kept a decent pace to stay in the hunt, made a calculated move to break away from the bunch comprising riders from Iran, Kazakhstan, Vietnam and Hong Kong. "I don't like racing in a bunch because I am more of an individual racer. My strategy of going for the kill in the last two kilometres paid off as I took them by surprise."

The move worked to precision as Muradian opened up a huge gap between himself and the followers, finishing a good 12 seconds earlier than silver medal winner Arvin Goudarzi of Iran and 17 seconds ahead of Kazakhstan rider Andrey Mizurov, who bagged the bronze.

Meanwhile, four Indian cyclists Atul Kumar, Sombir Singh, Amresh Singh and Arvind Panwar were among 37 riders who failed to finish the race.

In the overall medals tally, Kazakhstan came out on top with three gold, four silver and two bronze medals in road events while Hong Kong and China finished second with two gold and a bronze each, followed by Uzbekistan who won two gold medals.

Earlier, Koreans proved to be the Asian giants of the track races held at the Indira Gandhi Celodrome, topping the chart with 12 gold, seven silver and as many bronze medals.

Malaysia ended second with seven gold, three silver and six bronze while Hong Kong came third with seven gold, two silver and a bronze.

For India, Deborah and Manorama were pick of the cyclists in the junior class while Manisha and Geeturaj showed promise at the highest level.

Deborah had won three medals including one alongside Manorama, who came with a brilliant run to win silver in the keirin event.

Dhoni and Sachin have the feel of F1 track

Greater Noida: Some Indian cricketers let their hair down after their historic whitewash of Australia by zooming and careening around the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) here Monday morning.

Here, too, the leader of the pack was bike enthusiast and India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who rode down from the national capital on his fancy roadbike, Hellcat, to see what it feels like riding on a Formula 1 track.

The Indian players took some time out after whitewashing Australia 4-0 Sunday afternoon. The cricketers, including Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Prgayan Ojha turned up at the track early morning, taking BIC officials by surprise.

Dhoni, owner of several superbikes, spent a lot of time on the track, according to a BIC official. Delhi-based Sharma came in an Audi RS5 and giving him company were Ojha and Rahane.

Tendulkar, well-known for his love for F1 and fancy cars, and Kohli took to the track in instructor-driven sportscars.

"They took us all by surprise," the BIC official told IANS.

"But it was nice to see them spending so much time at the circuit. Most of them had come here during the Indian Grand Prix, but it was the first time they got the feel of the track. They not only drove, they stopped at every turn and understood the track. They also spent time in the race control room."

Dhoni, however, got it slightly wrong by getting a bulky bike.

"Dhoni said to me he could not manoeuvre it as well as he could have with a sportsbike. Next time, he said he would get one of his many sportsbikes and keep it here. His passion for bikes was very much evident," the official added.

The official added that Dhoni expressed his desire to be at BIC during the inaugural India-round of the Superbike World Championship (WSBK) in November. The skipper owns a team called Mahi Racing which competes in the World Supersport Championship, a support series to WSBK.

Buddh Circuit to organise public track tour

Greater Noida: Most motorsport fans, who were confined to watching the action from the general stands at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), now have the opportunity to take a sneak peek into the state-of-the-art Formula 1 facility.

BIC promoters will be kick-starting a guided tour of the $400 million facility covering its pit lane, garages, medical centre, race control room, winner's podium, team building, paddock club and time-keeping office.

The tour costing Rs.1,500 per person will include a lap of the 5.14 km track consisting 16 turns. Interested students will pay a discounted rate.

For now, the BIC Tour will only be available on Saturdays and will be an extension of their public activities which mainly comprise open-track-day for the speed enthusiasts.

BIC announces Open Track Day

Greater Noida: Buddh International Circuit is pleased to announce the ‘BIC Time Trial’ (Open track day) for general public on March 10, 2013. The open track day, at one of the world’s best F1 circuit, will give speed fanatics a chance to test their driving skills in the safest and controlled environment.

The track day will be open to all categories of bike and car owners and the only criteria to reserve a seat for a speed enthusiast is to have a valid driving license.

One will have the following options to choose from:

S No

Vehicle Mode

Options (1 session = 60 mins)

Registration fee (INR)

1

Car

1 session

Rs. 4000

sessions*

Rs. 12000

2

Bike

1 session

Rs. 3000

3 sessions*

Rs. 9000

*On Booking of three sessions, the fourth session will be complimentary (limited period offer)

Prior to taking their vehicles out on the track, each car or motorbike will be first assessed by track officials. There will then be a safety briefing facilitated by BIC's highly qualified professional driving instructors to discuss the rules, safety, driving techniques, circuit information and handling emergency situations while out on the tarmac.

A narrative glance of journey through BIC

'No Dream too Big' is a highly collectible limited edition book, giving a visual feast and an absorbing account of the Journey of the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) right from the time the idea of building a motor racing track took shape, the construction phase, right through to the hosting of the highly successful Formula 1 Inaugural Indian Grand Prix in October 2011.

With some rare pictures of BIC, this book is a reader's delight for those who want a peek into behind the scene activities that culminated into the construction of BIC and the hosting of Formula 1 race, a landmark event in India's sporting calendar.

Kazakhstan cyclist wins Tour de India

Greater Noida: Cyclist Pannasenko Nikita of Kazakhstan managed to edge past German Plarre Matthias in a photo-finish to win the final leg of the Tour de India at the Buddh International Circuit on Dec 9, also emerging the overall winner with 16 points.

Nikita finished the 25 lap race on the Formula 1 circuit milliseconds ahead of second placed Matthias in 2:57.18 while Akparov Abdullo of Uzbekistan finished third 35 seconds behind.

Matthias also finished second overall with 10 points while third Almansoori Ahmeed of U.A.E. finished third in the standings.

Jeetha Ram was the top Indian, clocking 2:57.53 helping him to finish third in the overall table.

Arvind Panwar finished second in the race to clinch the top spot in the standings with 16 points to be the best amongst Indians.

Surpreet Singh came third in the race to finish second overall with 14 points.

The prize money for the race was Rs. 15 lakh ($35,000).

The Cycling Federation of India (CFI) approved event saw 80 international riders from 54 nationalities taking part in the 128 km race.

The first and second leg of the Tour de India was held in Mumbai and Srinagar.

We are aiming for medals in Asia: CFI president

Greater Noida: Cycling Federation of India (CFI) president Parminder Singh Dhindsa is optimistic about the country's chances in the future in cycling.

"We are first focusing on Asian medals. It has been a long time since we got an Asian medal so it is time we should get some," Dhindsa was quoted as saying when asked about India's chances at the Olympics.

"We have a lot of Asian countries doing well in the international area like Malaysia, China, and Kazakhstan. It is high time we also start doing well. But we lag behind when it comes to the technique despite having the talent."

"Like last year we sent three of our boys to Japan to learn new techniques. They got to know that what they were doing was quite wrong. For example, where exactly should they put force while pedalling and what position should they sit in," he noted.

"So, we are investing more and for the last one year the sports ministry is also taking interest in cycling and taking it as a serious sport which did not happen earlier," added Dhindsa, who was elected the CFI head last year in June.

With the 2013 Asian Cycling Championships awarded to India by the International Cycling Union (UCI), Delhi and Noida are set to host a series of races.

"The Asian Championships is a big event. The road races will be held here at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) while the track races at the Velodrome in Delhi," added Dhindsa.

"Later in the year, we will also prepare for the Tour de India, cyclothons and more mountain biking championships. Mountain biking has seen an upward trend, especially among the youngsters. So we have a basketful of events happening in the New Year.

JPSI gets Best F1 Race Promoter award

Greater Noida: At the 2012 Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Prize Giving Gala held in Istanbul, Turkey on Dec 7th, Mr Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) won the 'Best F1 Race Promoter' award for the second year in a row. The FIA award recognizes JPSI’s hard work to make India a proud host of Formula One with the state of the art, Buddh International Circuit (BIC).

On winning the prestigious trophy for the second year, Mr Sameer Gaur, Managing Director and CEO of Jaypee Sports International said, “This is indeed a very proud moment and I am honoured to receive this FIA award for the second time on behalf of my entire team and the country, whose support and enthusiasm was responsible for us to win this award again. This award will motivate us to host a grandeur F1 Indian Grand Prix next year and we would hopefully be able to complete a hat-trick of the award.”

The FIA Prize Giving Gala is organized every year to honour all those who make outstanding contribution to promote motorsports world-wide.

Mr. Farhan Vohra, in-charge of race operations at the Buddh International Circuit, was also recognised by the FIA as the ‘Best Clerk of the Course’ for the year 2012. As a Clerk of the Course (COC), Mr. Vohra had the important responsibility of managing race operations and race control at the BIC during the first two editions of F1 Indian Grand Prix. Previously, he has also been a steward at the Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Germany F1 races, and is the only Indian accredited by the FIA to be a Steward and a Clerk at an F1 race.

Mr. Farhan Vohra, Race Operations in-charge and Clerk of the Course, Buddh International Circuit said, “I am honoured with this recognition, which could not have been possible without the efforts of entire JPSI team that helped ensure a smooth Indian Grand Prix for the second year running. We had made some changes to the track, leading up to the second Indian Grand Prix, but to think that we were able to achieve greater heights than last year, as the recognition signifies, is a testimony to how much more Buddh International Circuit can offer to motor racing.”

This award marks the second year running of BIC’s recognition as a world class motorsport facility. The Circuit and Mr Sameer Gaur had got over a dozen national and international awards last year as well.

MRF Challenge 2012: Jinkawa overcomes crash to win

Greater Noida: Japan's Yuudai Jinkawa recovered from a heavy crash on Dec 1 to win the fourth and final round of MRF Challenge 2012 at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) here on Dec 2.

American Conor Daly, who won the first race of Sunday, crossed the chequered flag in 15th place.

Parthiva Sureshwaren was best of the three Indians on the 17-car grid with a sixth place finish while Parth Ghorpade and Gaurav Gill came 12th and 16th, respectively.

Jinkawa seemed unfazed after his collision with Tom Gladdis Saturday, causing his car to be air-borne before landing. He overtook Gill on the opening lap and held on to his lead to finish five seconds ahead of Sam Dejonghe of Belgium. Hector Hurst of England grabbed the final podium spot.

"I forgot about what happened yesterday and the moment I was in the lead, I was determined to increase the gap with the other drivers. I am glad I was able to pull it off. It makes it special after the crash," said Jinkawa, who claimed his first win of his Formula career. The 22-year-old competed in the 2012 Japanese Formula Renault series back home.

Gill, in a race that saw the top six of the day's first round start reverse on the grid, managed to maintain his second position until lap six when a collision put paid to his chances of a top three finish. The contact caused a puncture on the right front tyre, disturbing the balance of the car.

Another Indian Sureshwaren improved to finish a place higher than his morning's seventh place.

Reigning Formula 2 champion Luciano Bachetta struggled with mechanical issues that could not be fixed throughout the day. He failed to complete the two races.

A noticeable absentee from the grid was Jordan King, the winner of the two rounds Saturday. The Englishman flew back to London to attend an award ceremony.

Alice Powell, the lone female on the grid, finished second and fourth in the two races.

Jordon King dazzles to win twice

Greater Noida: England's Jordan King completed an emphatic double in the MRF F2000 championship while Japan's Yuudai Jinkawa walked away from a spectacular crash after ramming into a straying Tom Gladdis of Gibraltar on the opening day of the Sidvin Festival of Speed at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) here on Dec 1.

The 18-year old King demonstrated raw speed and some smart moves that helped him win the first race after getting past front-running compatriot Akshay Luciano Bacheta who squandered a second place finish by running wide to drop to third behind American Conor Daly.

In the second race that began with a reverse grid, King, starting from sixth, made ground to get a jump on those ahead of him with some great overtaking and then moved into the on restart following the incident involving Gladdis and Jinkawa in the third lap.

Gladdis, who had run wide going into the first corner, cut right across the path of Jinkawa. Both the cars went off the track and Jinkawa's car seemed to have made contact with the back of Gladdis' machine launching the Japanese into the air. Jinkawa somersaulted and landed on heavily, but within seconds, he was out of the car virtually unhurt.

The race was red-flagged at that juncture on restart, King, running second behind Bacheta, put the hammer down to score a brilliant double that took him to the top of the leaderboard. However, King will be skipping the remaining two races Sunday as he flew off to England due to a prior commitment.

Bacheta finished second while Alice Powell, also from UK and the only female driver on the grid, came in third ahead of Daly.

Aston Hare and Aditya Patel bag honours

Greater Noida: On a day of highs, 16-year old Aston Hare from Johannesburg, South Africa, clinched the championship in the JK Racing Asia Series in his maiden single-seater season while India's Aditya Patel notched his first international race in this category as the Sidvin Festival of Speed concluded at the Buddh International Circuit, here on Dec 1.

Patel, the 25-year old, from Chennai, participating in the JK Asia Series as a guest driver for Euro International team, snatched victory by slipping past Hare on the penultimate lap to complete a fine run in the championship.

For Hare, also from Euro International, it was great weekend by winning three of the four races to annex the championship ahead of front-running Nabil Jeffri and title contender Afiq Ikhwan (Meritus) both of whom retired after a collision in the eighth lap.

Hare started out well to jump into the lead before Jeffri, who had got past Patel, and Ikhwan caught up with him. The trio were involved in a close battle before Jeffri and Ikhwan took each other out on the last corner.

Patel, who had kept up with the trio, then seized his chance to slipstream past Hare on the back straight of the penultimate lap to clinch his first international win in single-seater racing.

"I had a poor start and was struggling for pace, may be because I had not warmed the tyres sufficiently. I fell to fourth behind the three championship contenders, but stayed out of trouble. On lap eight, Jeffri and Ikhwan went out after making contact and I then caught up with Hare before passing him on the penultimate lap," said Patel.

For Hare, still in school, and here with his mother and sister, it was a great start to his career. Hailing from a family of racers, Hare said he had come into the weekend hoping to finish second in the championship and so, the result was yet to sink in.

"My family was here to support me and I just wanted to defend my second place in the championship, but it turned out different. It is still to sink in, but certainly, I feel great," said Hare.

Veteran Ameya Walavalkar claimed the championship in the JK Tyre-VW Polo R Cup by winning the first of the two races while Prashant Singh took the honours in the second run for his maiden success.

Sandeep Kumar took the honours in the Pro Category and was subsequently chosen to participate in the Volkswagen Scirocco R Cup series next year.

Earlier, the Indian Touring Cars race witnessed a close battle between veteran Narayanaswamy Leelakrishnan (Big Foots Racing) and B Balavijay (Moto-Rev India) throughout the six laps.

Balavijay came close to slipping past seven times National Rally champion Leelakrishnan who, however, defended his lines well while showcasing his vast experience to complete a fine double this weekend.

Leelakrishnan finished second in the championship, just one point behind Arjun Balu (Tiger Sport India) who sat out the final two races as he had already clinched the title with a round to spare.

Balavijay, the 2011 IJTC champion, completed his debut season in the ITC class by finishing third in the championship.

In the Indian Junior Touring Cars class, S Feroze Khan emulated his father Ayub by winning the championship as he finished second in both the races over the weekend while Fahad Kutty of Team Game Over, who achieved a double took the second spot in the final standings.

Sidvin Festival of Speed to be annual show

Bangalore: The inaugural SIDVIN Festival of Speed that brings together rivals JK Tyre and MRF Tyres besides Volkswagen and is to be held in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012, will be an annual fixture in the Indian motorsport calendar, according to Mohan Nagarajan, CMD, Sidvin Core-Tech India Pvt. Ltd.

Efforts are also on to secure participation of more car manufacturers in the coming years, Nagarajan said.

At an informal chat with local Media here Tuesday, Nagarajan said the Festival will help split cost of hiring the Formula One Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. The two-day event would also help showcase the cream of Indian motorsport talent besides providing an excellent opportunity for home competitors to drive on an F1 track.

"The exposure would be immense for Indian drivers, many of whom have never before driven on an F1 track. Also, there is the cost factor that will now be shared by the stakeholders."

"I take this opportunity to highlight the initiative by Volkswagen in bringing this show together and I am sure, the Festival will usher in a new era in Indian motorsport," said Nagarajan who is also on the safety committee of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India under whose aegis the festival is being run.

Nagarajan hoped that Volkswagen entry into Indian motor racing through their single-make Polo R Cup series would encourage other car manufacturers to join the bandwagon.

The weekend's programme has the JK Racing Asia Series (4 races), the MRF Challenge (4 races), Polo R Cup series (2 races) and the FMSCI-JK Tyre National Racing Championship (4 races) that has three categories.

Thus, on display will be the erstwhile Formula BMW cars that will run in the JK Racing Asia series, the Formula 2000 powered by Renault engines in the MRF Challenge, and the 180bhp Polo R Cup car in the Volkswagen series apart from the Indian touring cars in two classes, modified and stock, and the LGB Formula 4 as part of the National championship.

In all, 14 races will be run over two days with as many as 125 Indian and foreign drivers competing, thus making it the largest such congregation in the history of Indian motorsports.

Big four to scorch BIC at Festival of Speed

New Delhi: The wellknown faces of Indian motorsports Karun Chandhok, Narain Karthikeyan, Aditya Patel and Armaan Ebrahim are set to act as chauffeurs at the Sidvin Festival of Speed that will held at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012.

A short race has been planned at the Buddh International (BIC) where they take on each other while taking guests on their dream drive in an Audi R8, a car capable of reaching 300 km/hr.

Chandhok, Patel and Ebrahim have confirmed their participation for the festival while a reply is awaited from Karthikeyan, who finished his second Formula One season with HRT in Brazil on Nov 25.

"You often see top drivers take you around the track. This will be different as they will race each other while having guests in the car. It will be a thrilling experience for the people," said Sanjay Sharma, head of motor sports at JK Tyre.

Sharma added that the special event has been given a 40-minute slot. The Festival of Speed will see the drivers battling it out in the finale of JK Racing Asia Series, MRF Challenge, Volkswagen Polo R Cup and National Racing Championship.

Entry for the event is through invite which is available for the fans free of cost at JK Tyre, MRF and Audi outlets.

BIC to host SIDVIN Festival of Speed

New Delhi: In an event that could be the largest motorsport spectacle of domestic racing that India has ever witnessed, the SIDVIN Festival of Speed takes place at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from November 30 to December 2, 2012. This first-of-a-kind initiative will witness host two major International Championships, the finale of the JK Racing Asia Series, and Round 2 of the MRF Challenge 2012. It will also host the final rounds of the most coveted national racing championships in India - the ‘JK Tyre-Volkswagen Polo R Cup’ and the ‘JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship’, making it the biggest motorsports extravaganza to take place in India.

Close to 125 talented drivers from India & abroad will converge to display their skill at the event, which promises motorsport enthusiasts a veritable feast of nail-biting action, intense battles and unmatched moments of glory at one of the world’s best F1 circuits. The pulsating race weekend will include 14 races providing edge-of-the-seat action.

Announcing this exciting new event, title sponsor, Mr. Mohan Nagrajan, CMD, SIDVIN, said, “We are proud to bring in the second edition of SIDVIN Festival of Speed, the first was the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. This being the largest motorsport extravaganza in the domestic front, with the country's largest sponsors and promoters coming together after many decades, it is but natural for SIDVIN to be involved. We are proud to be associated with JK Tyre, MRF and Volkswagen who are the largest contributors to Indian Motorsport. Motorsport is one of the fastest growing sport in India and SIDVIN has been at the forefront of promoting domestic motorsports, be it events or drivers. This is a momentous occasion for Indian motorsport fans and competitors alike. We are confident that this will herald a new era in Indian motorsports.”

The SIDVIN Festival of Speed will witness the culmination of India’s premier and only racing championship - the 16th JK Tyre National Racing Championship where the 2012 champions will be awarded. The weekend will see India’s top racing drivers competing for glory in the grand finale of the JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship that consists of the JK Tyre Volkswagen Polo-R Cup, LGB Formula 4, Indian Touring Cars, and Indian Junior Touring Cars championships. India’s top drivers have battled it out over five exciting rounds that took place on racetracks in Coimbatore and Chennai and will now gear up for the final face-off at the world’s second fastest race track.

The JK Tyre-Volkswagen Polo R Cup has proved to be a great stepping stone for the young drivers across the country since its inception. The Polo R Cup has given an opportunity to talented drivers from the previous seasons to represent India at in Germany at the Scirocco R Cup. The Polo R Cup is a one-make series that provides a platform wherein every competitor gets a fair chance to prove his/her mettle as each one of them gets an identical car and technical support. This brings out the real driving skills of the participants with no one getting any advantage over the other as far as the race machines are considered. The 2012 season witnessed the introduction of the all-new and faster TSI Race Polo with powerful 1.4 litre petrol engines. 20 of India’s best drivers including one International driver, Diego Duez from Mexico have been battling it out for the coveted title in the last five rounds of the season. With the top contenders in the championship standing marginally close to each other, the title battle has trickled down to the last round that is to be held at the Sidvin Festival of Speed at BIC.

The four-round race weekend of JK Racing Asia Series, the only ‘Junior’ Formula Racing Series in the world that provides a unique opportunity to the drivers to compete in front of the biggest names of the motorsport fraternity will decide who will be the next JK Racing Asia Series World Champion and signal the end of a historic 16-round season that saw the series making its maiden European sojourn with races at legendary circuits like Paul Ricard Circuit, Circuit de Spa Francorchamps, and the Silverstone Circuit. Penultimate rounds 11 and 12 of the JK Racing Asia Series took place alongside the 2012 Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix last month at the Buddh International Circuit. As part of JK Tyre’s constant endeavour to promote talent and give them the best available opportunity to excel, seven young and competent Indian drivers got an invaluable opportunity to race on home turf in front of home crowds.

The MRF Challenge 2012 returns to the Buddh International Circuit for the Sidvin Festival of Speed, after its mega-successful debut in late October 2012 as a support race to the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix. The line-up of 18 Renault-sport powered Dallara racing single-seaters, purpose built for this series by Jayem Automotives Ltd of Coimbatore, will scorch the track with an unprecedented 4 races over the course of the weekend. With engines screaming at 7000 RPM and generating volumes of over 100 decibels each, the grid boast of a combined power output of almost 4,000 bhp! The competition is extremely stiff with drivers from all over the globe. The series points table is currently being led by returning 2011 MRF Champion, Jordan King, who was Vice-Champion in the Formula Renault NEC in 2012. He is followed closely by GP3 race winner (and son of ex-Formula 1 & IndyCar racer Derek Daly) Conor Daly, with reigning 2012 F2 Champion Luciano Bacheta a close third. The highest placed Indian driver is Parthiva Sureshwaren who is currently 9th in the points standings with 2 top-ten finishes in the two races so far. He is confident of advancing many places up the table with strong finishes in all 4 races this weekend.

Apart from some serious racing, a lot of other interesting events has been planned for the motorsport enthusiasts. Audiences will get to see some amazing Stunt shows performed by India’s best race drivers on Volkswagen Cars. Also to keep the audience entertained is the Super Car Parade. Entry for the exciting event will be through invitations or through promotions by event partners. Coming on the heels of the recently concluded Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix, the event promises world-class action at a world-class circuit.

As the biggest domestic motorsport extravaganza begins at the Buddh International Circuit, the weekend promises all the necessary ingredients of a visual treat for all motorsport aficionados!

Santana finds spiritual connect with India

New Delhi: Legendary guitarist Carlos Santana, who is set to entertain music lovers in India, says that country's strong spirituality inspires him manifold.

It is great honour to be here. The whole idea of coming to India is to connect with something that I learned, and that is spiritual principles. Yes American children are very much invested in material but India has something that we need and that is called spiritual awareness," he said.

So when I play music, it's more then Mexican or American or Cubic. We come here to re-connect with your heart (Indians) that remind you something that we learned from you, Santana said while addressing the media here.

The 65-year-old, who is being brought here by event management company DNA Entertainment, will headline the international act at F1 Rocks with Vladivar Sunday.

Dressed in white printed shirt and trousers, with a black hat atop, Santana was accompanied by his wife Cindy Blackman.

I feel inspired, grateful and honoured to be performing in India. I am looking forward to the colours, textures and sounds of this beautiful country. I am sure it will be a pleasure to meet Indian music enthusiasts and present my music live to them for the very first time, he said.

He rose to fame in the late 1960s and carved a niche for himself by playing bluesy guitar riffs set against Latin and jazz fusion. "Black Magic Woman" was the song that won them recognition.

Santana says that he also want people to realise that music can actually help in healing the pains and can help in achieving a prosperous country.

We want to make music to heal this planet especially people's consciousness. Music helps in honouring, respecting women and children so that we can stop the war all over the world. We want to remind people all over the world that music also helps in motivating us to take responsibility for this wonderful world, he said.

Ask him whether he is open with the idea of collaborating with Indian music industry , he said why not.

I am open to collaborate with females or males from India as long as it is from the heart and the song is correct, said Santana, who is in love with Mango Lassi and spicy Indian food especially South Indian dishes.

Aussies have utmost respect for Tendulkar: Webber

Greater Noida: Australian Formula 1 driver Mark Webber said here that his country has utmost respect for Indian cricketing maestro Sachin Tendulkar.

"Sachin Tendulkar has just been an incredible cricketer and one of the most amazing sportspersons the world has seen. Australians have utmost respect for Tendulkar. The government, the people, everyone respects him," said Webber, who drives for current constructors' World Champions Red Bull.

Australia Prime Minister Julia Gilliard recently conferred Tendulkar with the Membership of the Order of Australia, an honour rarely bestowed on non-Australians. This did not go well with many Australians, who questioned whether the Indian batting legend should receive this honour.

However, Webber had a different take on it.

"We have given the Order of Australia to cricketers from other nations too. They have been doing it for a while now. We gave it to Garfield Sobers and Brian Lara. If we can give it to Lara then Tendulkar certainly deserves it," said the 36-year-old.

When Paul, Nico turned stylists

The duo visited the newly-opened Hackett London store at DLF Emporio mall here to show off their fashion sense, days before displaying serious speed during the Oct 26-28 Indian Grand Prix.

The models were dressed in looks that encapsulated the drivers' preferred choices for casual and formal wear. The presentation of the collection via a live mannequin installation brought alive the sartorial interpretation of Force India.

"It was fun styling the models. We also like to dress up sometimes as we are wearing team kits during the race weekends. I am more of a casual dresser, confined to a pair of t-shirt and denims," Hulkenberg said as di Resta sat beside his teammate.

It did not take long for di Resta to participate in the conversation.

"After-parties is the time when we get to unwind. I like dressing up for those, especially pool parties."

The relationship with the Silverstone-based team marks the continuation of Hackett's plans to expand further into international markets, including India, and capitalise on the global appeal of the sport.

Gear up for Arjun Rampal's DJ debut at F1 after-party

New Delhi: Expect no Lady Gaga this time! But a mix of international DJs (disc jockeys) and entertainers from the famous Cirque du Soleil club are set to rev up the action at Arjun Rampal's official after-parties for the second Formula One Indian Grand Prix. Also, the actor-businessman is set to make his big debut behind the console.

"I will make a debut (as a DJ), but I don't put myself anywhere near to people like Emery," Arjun said humbly.

The actor, a music aficionado, will play DJ on Sunday's finale night, which will see British electronic dance music producer Gareth Emery and "two hot and sexy girls" from The Electroverts, spinning the disc.

"We are going with more of a DJ line-up this time," Arjun, who has the mandate to host F1 after-parties at his exclusive, members-only club LAP at Hotel Samrat here, told IANS.

The second edition of Formula One Indian Grand Prix is starting Friday and the first night will see London-based musician Darren Foreman aka Beardyman, known for his beatboxing skills, raising the momentum and party fever.

Dutch duo Peter Kriek and Ariaan Olieroock of 16 Bit Lolitas will also heat up the electronic music quotient on the same night.

On day two, expect triple fun with three international DJs spinning the disc at the 17,000 square feet LAP, which recently reopened its doors after renovation and upgradation of the sound and light systems.

DJ Ankytrixx, popular for his tech-house and progressive tunes; American record producer Junior Sanchez, who has worked with names like Madonna and Shakira; and Grammy award-winning British house trio Dirty Vegas, will set the party mood.

A common attraction on all three days will be artists from the Cirque du Soleil clubs, known for their dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment. There will be men on stilts, midgets dressed in colourful attires, acrobats and trapeze artists to entertain the guests.

"It is crazy to see these guys perform, and there is going to be something unique from them each day," Arjun said.

There's a price tag to the parties, with a cover charge divided into three categories - Super Premium, Premium and Walk-ins. And the prices vary each day.

If Walk-in will cost Rs.15,000, Rs.20,000 and Rs.25,000 on days one, two and three, respectively; for the Premium entry, one will have to shell out Rs.20,000, Rs.25,000 and Rs.30,000 in the same order.

Be ready to splurge Rs.35,000 and Rs.40,000 for day one and two, respectively, to avail Super Premium entry. For the final day, there will be a customised rate.

"It should be fun, and it will be a more private and intimate affair, with just about 600 to 650 people," said Arjun who is organising the parties in association with Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI).

The cover charge includes food and drinks.

What about the menu?

"There will be mainly finger food - pizzas, tacos, and to add a dash of Indian flavour, there will be the evergreen chicken tikka and also shawarmas. Nothing heavy from the Indian platter," he said.

The first season saw a host of Bollywood celebrities, including superstar Shah Rukh Khan, his wife Gauri, Hrithik Roshan's wife Suzanne, Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone, Preity Zinta, Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor, apart from several F1 racers, at the after-parties.

The line-up is expected to be as star-studded this time too.

Guitar legend Santana set for Formula One Rocks concert

New Delhi: India has taught him "aspirational" philosophy. Now, when legendary guitarist Carlos Santana is set to perform at the Formula One Rocks concert, the Mexican-American musician feels "honoured" to take the stage in a country that has inspired him in many ways.

"I feel inspired, grateful and honoured indeed (to perform in India). The west desires, while India aspires. Aspiration is when you want attraction, I have learned this philosophy from India. This is something we greatly need in the west," Santana, who is on a world tour right now, told IANS in an e-mail interview.

The 65-year-old, who is being brought here by event management company DNA Entertainment, will headline an international act at F1 Rocks Oct 28.

He says that he play things from yesterday, today and tomorrow and something that people remember.

Talking about his India performance, he said: "It is a two-and-a-half-hour journey across collaborations. With an entourage size of 35, the performance will encompass and showcase a 'Greatest Hits Tour' for India."

He rose to fame in the late 1960s and carved a niche for himself by playing bluesy guitar riffs set against Latin and jazz fusion. "Black Magic Woman" was the song that won them recognition.

He is also knonw for chart-topping collaborations with pop and rock vocalists. He collaborated with Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20 for "Smooth", "Put your lights on" with Everlast, and "Maria Maria" with The Product G&B.

In his decades-long career, Santana has sold more than 100 million records and has won 10 Grammy awards. He was honoured with the Billboard Latin Music Awards 2009 Lifetime Award and the Billboard's Century Award and has been named among the '100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time'.

Talking about his inspiration, he said: "All artists go into the invisible realm to bring visuals of imagination and make it tangible. It is the purity of innocence, the complexity of simplicity."

F1 Rocks is a distinctive musical event that happens during Formula 1 events across the world.

Santana's latest album, "Shape Shifter" is the first for his new label, Starfaith Records. The 13 song set is an instrumental tour de force long-awaited by fans.

Bacardi NH7 Weekender arrives Delhi with over 60 artists

New Delhi: The Delhi edition of the Bacardi NH7 Weekender starts on October 13 with six stages and over 60 artists performing. It appears to be a great weekend for music lovers.

The organisers have made arrangements to make it a hassle free event and made sure that you don't have to fight to make your way in. Their website has detailed images, maps and routes for the festival. (the link of website is given at the bottom)

After reaching the festival one can either buy on-the-spot tickets, or redeem the bought tickets for wristbands from the box office. The box office opens at noon on both days, and it’s got 40 lanes so that queues get significantly shorter. Along with the wristband, the patron will also be handed a handy festival map for their convenience.